As an incredibly bright and large full moon loomed over Galveston Island, the hearts and wallets of some very generous people were opening wide in the heart of the island. The 2012 Galveston Black Tie & Boots Gala benefiting the American Heart Association was held on May 5 in the heart of the historic Strand District on Galveston Island. The Tremont House was this year’s gala site and what a show it was. The ballroom was decked out in finery to pay homage to Cinco de Mayo. People mingled and money was flowing, especially during the “open your heart” portion. Wars were even waged during the live auction as men (and even some women) tried to outbid each other for the night’s top items.

This year’s event raised close to $170,000

In 2011, UTMB Galveston scientists were awarded $1.3 million in research grants by the American Heart Association